Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for authenticating a passive smart device to unlock an electronic lock, comprising: receiving, from a computing device, an authentication request comprising primary identification data associated with the passive smart device; receiving, from the computing device, secondary identification data associated with the computing device; determining that at least a portion of the authentication request corresponds to authentication data stored in an authentication database; receiving, from the electronic lock, detection data corresponding to the passive smart device being within a predetermined range of the electronic lock; receiving, from the passive smart device, an identifier; receiving, from the computing device, secondary authentication data within a predetermined time following receiving the detection data; determining that the identifier corresponds to the primary identification data; determining that the secondary authentication data corresponds to the secondary identification data; and directing the electronic lock to transition from a locked state to an unlocked state.
This invention relates to the field of electronic security and specifically addresses the problem of securely authenticating passive smart devices to unlock electronic locks. The method involves a computing device initiating an authentication process for a passive smart device. The computing device sends a request containing primary identification data for the passive smart device and secondary identification data for itself. The system verifies that at least part of this request matches stored authentication data. Simultaneously, the electronic lock detects the passive smart device entering a predetermined proximity. The passive smart device then transmits its identifier. Following the detection, and within a specific time frame, the computing device provides secondary authentication data. The system confirms that the passive smart device's identifier matches the primary identification data and that the secondary authentication data matches the secondary identification data. Upon successful verification of both, the electronic lock is instructed to unlock.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: sending, to the passive smart device, an identifier request that provides power to a power collection circuit of the passive smart device.
A method for interacting with a passive smart device involves sending an identifier request to the device, where the request provides power to the device's power collection circuit. Passive smart devices are electronic devices that lack an internal power source and rely on external power to operate. These devices are often used in applications where battery replacement or recharging is impractical, such as in remote sensors or embedded systems. The problem addressed is the need to activate and communicate with such devices without requiring an independent power supply. The method includes transmitting an identifier request signal to the passive smart device, which powers the device's internal circuitry. This allows the device to respond with an identifier, enabling recognition and further interaction. The power collection circuit in the passive smart device captures energy from the incoming signal, converting it into usable power for the device's operations. This approach eliminates the need for batteries or external power sources, reducing maintenance costs and improving reliability in environments where power access is limited. The method is particularly useful in systems where multiple passive smart devices are deployed, such as in industrial monitoring, smart home automation, or asset tracking. By sending an identifier request, the system can distinguish between different devices and establish communication without prior knowledge of their presence. This ensures efficient and scalable deployment of passive smart devices in various applications.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the passive smart device is configured to transmit data in response to receiving the power from the identifier request.
A system and method for wirelessly powering and communicating with passive smart devices involves a reader device that generates an electromagnetic field to power a passive smart device within its range. The passive smart device, lacking an internal power source, harvests energy from the electromagnetic field to activate its circuitry. Upon receiving power, the passive smart device transmits stored or sensed data back to the reader device. The reader device may also transmit an identifier request signal, prompting the passive smart device to respond with identification or status information. This approach eliminates the need for batteries in the smart device, reducing maintenance and environmental impact. The system is particularly useful in applications like asset tracking, environmental monitoring, and industrial automation, where low-power, wireless communication is essential. The passive smart device may include sensors, memory, or processing components that operate only when powered by the reader's electromagnetic field, ensuring energy efficiency. The reader device can be configured to interrogate multiple passive smart devices within its range, enabling scalable deployment in various environments. The method ensures reliable data transmission by synchronizing the power delivery and data transmission phases, optimizing energy transfer and communication efficiency.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the passive smart device comprises one or more of a passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag or a passive smart tag.
A system and method for wirelessly powering and communicating with passive smart devices, such as passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags or passive smart tags, to enable their operation without an internal power source. The passive smart devices are designed to harvest energy from an external power source, such as a radio-frequency (RF) signal, to activate their circuitry and perform functions like data transmission or sensing. The system includes a power transmitter that emits an RF signal to both power the passive smart device and establish bidirectional communication. The passive smart device modulates the reflected RF signal to transmit data back to the power transmitter, allowing for real-time interaction without requiring an onboard power supply. This technology addresses the challenge of powering small, low-energy devices in environments where battery replacement or wired connections are impractical, such as in industrial monitoring, asset tracking, or environmental sensing. The passive smart device may include additional components, such as sensors or memory, to enhance functionality while maintaining energy efficiency. The system ensures reliable operation by dynamically adjusting the power transmission parameters based on environmental conditions and device requirements.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the identifier request is generated by one or more of an RFID reader or a smart tag reader device.
A system and method for generating and processing identifier requests in a tracking or identification system. The invention addresses the need for efficient and reliable identification of objects or entities in environments where multiple readers or tags may be present. The method involves generating an identifier request, which is a signal or command used to prompt a response from a tag or device containing identification information. The identifier request is generated by either an RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) reader or a smart tag reader device. These readers detect and communicate with tags or devices embedded with identification data, such as unique identifiers or other relevant information. The system ensures that the identifier request is properly formatted and transmitted to the appropriate tag or device, enabling accurate identification and tracking. The method may also include processing the response from the tag or device to extract the identification information and perform further actions, such as logging, authentication, or inventory management. The use of RFID or smart tag readers allows for wireless, non-contact identification, making the system suitable for applications like supply chain management, asset tracking, or access control. The invention improves upon existing systems by enhancing the reliability and efficiency of identifier request generation and processing.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the secondary authentication data includes the predetermined range.
A system and method for enhancing authentication security by incorporating secondary authentication data that includes a predetermined range. The invention addresses the problem of vulnerable authentication systems that rely solely on primary credentials, which can be compromised through attacks such as phishing or brute force. By introducing secondary authentication data, the system adds an additional layer of security, making unauthorized access more difficult. The secondary authentication data includes a predetermined range, which may be a numerical range, time-based range, or other defined parameter. This range is used to validate the authenticity of the authentication attempt. For example, if the secondary authentication data is a one-time password (OTP), the predetermined range could define the acceptable time window for OTP validity. Alternatively, if the secondary authentication data is a biometric measurement, the range could specify acceptable variance thresholds for matching. The system generates or receives the secondary authentication data and compares it against the predetermined range to determine if the authentication attempt is valid. If the data falls within the range, the authentication is approved; if not, access is denied. This method ensures that even if primary credentials are compromised, the secondary authentication data with its range-based validation provides an additional barrier against unauthorized access. The invention improves security without significantly impacting user convenience, as the range can be dynamically adjusted based on risk factors or user behavior.
7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: providing a notification to the computing device based on the at least a portion of the authentication request corresponding to the authentication data; wherein the notification comprises authentication confirmation data.
A system and method for secure authentication involves verifying authentication requests by comparing them to stored authentication data. The method includes receiving an authentication request from a computing device, extracting at least a portion of the request, and comparing it to authentication data stored in a database. If the extracted portion matches the stored data, the system generates a notification sent to the computing device. This notification includes authentication confirmation data, indicating successful verification. The authentication data may include biometric, password, or token-based credentials. The system ensures secure access control by validating requests before granting access to protected resources. The method may also involve additional security measures, such as multi-factor authentication or encryption, to enhance protection against unauthorized access. The notification mechanism ensures real-time feedback to the user, improving the user experience while maintaining security. The system is applicable in various domains, including financial transactions, healthcare records, and enterprise access control, where secure authentication is critical.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining that the at least a portion of the authentication request corresponds to the authentication data stored in the authentication database comprises: determining that a first financial service provider associated with the smart transaction device corresponds to a stored financial service provider stored in the authentication database.
This invention relates to secure authentication systems for financial transactions using smart transaction devices, such as smart cards or mobile payment systems. The problem addressed is ensuring that authentication requests are valid and authorized by verifying the financial service provider associated with the transaction device against stored authentication data. The method involves determining whether an authentication request corresponds to pre-stored authentication data by verifying that the financial service provider linked to the smart transaction device matches a stored financial service provider in an authentication database. This ensures that only authorized transactions from recognized financial service providers are processed, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access. The authentication process may include additional steps, such as validating the transaction device itself, verifying user credentials, or cross-referencing transaction details with stored records. The system dynamically checks the financial service provider's identity to confirm legitimacy, reducing fraud risks. This approach is particularly useful in digital payment systems, banking applications, and other financial services where secure authentication is critical. The method improves transaction security by ensuring that only trusted financial service providers can initiate or authorize transactions.
9. A method for authenticating a passive smart device to unlock a first electronic lock of a plurality of electronic locks, comprising: receiving, from a computing device, an authentication request comprising identification data associated with the passive smart device; determining that at least a portion of the authentication request corresponds to authentication data stored in an authentication database; assigning the identification data to the first electronic lock of the plurality of electronic locks; receiving, from the first electronic lock, detection data corresponding to the passive smart device being within a predetermined range of the first electronic lock; obtaining, from the passive smart device, an identifier; determining that the identifier is not expired; determining that the identifier corresponds to the identification data; and directing the first electronic lock to transition from a locked state to an unlocked state.
This invention relates to a system for authenticating passive smart devices to unlock electronic locks. The problem addressed is securely and efficiently authenticating devices that lack active communication capabilities, such as passive RFID or NFC tags, to control access to specific locks within a network of multiple electronic locks. The method involves receiving an authentication request from a computing device, which includes identification data linked to the passive smart device. The system verifies this data against stored authentication records. Once validated, the identification data is assigned to a specific electronic lock among multiple available locks. The system then detects the passive smart device when it comes within a predefined proximity of the assigned lock, retrieves an identifier from the device, and checks that the identifier is valid and matches the previously assigned identification data. If all conditions are met, the system instructs the lock to transition from a locked to an unlocked state, granting access. This approach ensures secure, proximity-based authentication for passive devices without requiring continuous active communication.
10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: sending, to the passive smart device, an identifier request that provides power to a power collection circuit of the passive smart device.
The method also includes sending a request to a simple electronic device that powers it up specifically to identify itself.
11. The method of claim 9 , wherein the passive smart device is configured to transmit data only after receiving power from an external power supply.
A system and method for managing power consumption in passive smart devices involves a device that remains in a low-power or dormant state until activated by an external power source. The device includes a power management module that monitors power input from an external supply, such as a user-initiated action or an environmental energy harvester. Once power is received, the device transitions from a passive state to an active state, enabling data transmission or processing. The device may include sensors or communication modules that remain inactive until powered, reducing standby energy consumption. The method ensures that the device only consumes significant power when necessary, extending battery life or reducing reliance on external energy sources. This approach is particularly useful in IoT applications where devices are deployed in remote or hard-to-access locations, minimizing maintenance requirements. The system may also include a controller that regulates power distribution to different components, ensuring efficient use of available energy. By activating only when powered, the device avoids unnecessary energy drain, making it suitable for battery-powered or energy-harvesting applications. The method may further include a wake-up mechanism triggered by the external power supply, ensuring rapid activation and data transmission when needed.
12. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: transmitting a notification to the computing device based on the at least a portion of the authentication request corresponding to the authentication data.
A system and method for secure authentication involves verifying user credentials by comparing authentication requests to stored authentication data. The method includes receiving an authentication request from a computing device, where the request contains user-provided credentials. The system extracts at least a portion of the authentication request and compares it to stored authentication data to determine if there is a match. If a match is found, the system transmits a notification to the computing device, indicating successful authentication. The authentication data may include biometric information, passwords, or other security credentials. The system may also validate the authentication request by checking its integrity and origin before processing. This method enhances security by ensuring that only authorized users can access protected resources, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. The notification may include a confirmation message, access token, or other response indicating successful authentication. The system may also log authentication attempts for auditing and security monitoring purposes. This approach improves authentication reliability and security in computing environments.
13. A method for authenticating a smart transaction card associated with a financial account of a user to unlock a first electronic lock of a plurality of electronic locks, the method comprising: receiving, from a computing device, a reservation request to access a restricted area during a reservation time; receiving, from the computing device, check-in information for the user; receiving, from the smart transaction card, a card identifier; determining that the check-in information corresponds to the reservation request; transmitting, to the computing device, a lock identifier associated with the first electronic lock of the plurality of electronic locks; receiving, via the smart transaction card, key data from the first electronic lock; determining that the key data corresponds to the card identifier; and directing the first electronic lock to transition from a locked state to an unlocked state.
This invention relates to a system for authenticating a smart transaction card to unlock electronic locks, particularly in controlled access environments like restricted areas. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and convenient access control for users with pre-approved reservations, while preventing unauthorized entry. The method involves a smart transaction card linked to a user's financial account. A computing device sends a reservation request to access a restricted area during a specified time. The system then receives check-in information for the user and a card identifier from the smart transaction card. After verifying that the check-in information matches the reservation request, the system transmits a lock identifier for the specific electronic lock assigned to the user. The smart transaction card interacts with the electronic lock, exchanging key data. The system validates this key data against the card identifier. Upon successful authentication, the electronic lock transitions from a locked to an unlocked state, granting the user access. This approach ensures that only authorized users with valid reservations can unlock designated electronic locks, enhancing security while streamlining access control.
14. The method of claim 13 , further comprising: setting an expiration time for the key data corresponding to the reservation request; and determining that the expiration time has not expired prior to directing the first electronic lock to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state.
This invention relates to electronic lock systems for managing access to physical spaces, particularly in scenarios where temporary access is granted via reservation. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and time-limited access to a locked space, such as a rental property or shared facility, without requiring physical key exchanges or manual intervention. The method involves receiving a reservation request for a physical space secured by an electronic lock. The system generates key data, such as a digital key or access code, associated with the reservation. This key data is transmitted to a user device, enabling the user to unlock the electronic lock upon arrival. To prevent unauthorized access, the system sets an expiration time for the key data, ensuring it becomes invalid after a predefined period. Before granting access, the system verifies that the expiration time has not passed. Only if the key data is still valid does the system direct the electronic lock to transition from a locked to an unlocked state, allowing the user entry. This approach enhances security by automatically revoking access after the reservation period, reducing the risk of misuse. The method may also include additional steps, such as validating the reservation request and confirming the user's identity before generating the key data.
15. The method of claim 13 , further comprising: transmitting a notification to the computing device that the check-in information corresponds to the reservation request.
This invention relates to a system for managing reservations and check-ins, particularly in environments like hotels, restaurants, or event venues. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and potential errors in verifying whether a guest's check-in information matches their reservation, leading to delays or incorrect access. The system includes a computing device that receives a reservation request from a user, which contains details such as the user's identity, reservation time, and any required credentials. A server processes this request and generates a reservation record, which is stored in a database. When the user arrives, they provide check-in information to a check-in device, which may include biometric data, a digital token, or other identifiers. The check-in device transmits this information to the server, which compares it against the stored reservation record to verify a match. If the check-in information corresponds to the reservation, the server transmits a notification to the computing device, confirming the match. This notification may trigger further actions, such as granting access, updating the reservation status, or sending a confirmation message to the user. The system ensures accurate and efficient verification, reducing manual errors and improving user experience. The invention may also include additional features like real-time updates, multi-factor authentication, or integration with third-party systems for enhanced functionality.
16. The method of claim 13 , further comprising: generating a key limitation; transmitting the key limitation to the smart transaction card; and determining that the key limitation is satisfied prior to directing the first electronic lock to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state.
A system and method for secure access control using a smart transaction card involves managing electronic locks through a centralized server. The system includes a smart transaction card with processing capabilities, a first electronic lock that transitions between locked and unlocked states, and a server that communicates with the card and the lock. The server receives a request to unlock the first electronic lock, verifies the request, and directs the lock to transition to an unlocked state if the request is valid. The smart transaction card may also communicate with the server to facilitate the unlocking process. Additionally, the system may generate and transmit a key limitation to the smart transaction card, which must be satisfied before the lock is unlocked. This ensures that access is granted only under specific conditions, enhancing security. The method ensures that the key limitation is checked and confirmed before unlocking, preventing unauthorized access. The system may also include a second electronic lock, which the server can direct to transition between states based on requests and validations, allowing for multi-lock management. The smart transaction card may also receive and process commands from the server to control the locks, providing a flexible and secure access control solution.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the key limitation comprises an entry gesture to be performed with the smart transaction card; and wherein determining that the key limitation is satisfied comprises receiving, from the smart transaction card, gesture data corresponding to the entry gesture.
A smart transaction card system enables secure transactions by requiring a user to perform a specific entry gesture before authorization. The system includes a smart transaction card with gesture detection capabilities and a processing device that verifies the gesture to authorize transactions. The card detects user gestures, such as swipes or taps, and transmits gesture data to the processing device. The processing device compares the received gesture data to a predefined gesture pattern stored in a database. If the gesture matches the stored pattern, the transaction is authorized. This method enhances security by ensuring only authorized users can complete transactions, preventing unauthorized access. The gesture-based authentication adds an additional layer of protection beyond traditional PIN or biometric verification, reducing fraud risks. The system is particularly useful in financial transactions, access control, and secure data transmission, where unauthorized use of a lost or stolen card must be prevented. The gesture data may include motion patterns, pressure levels, or timing information, allowing for precise verification. The processing device may be a mobile device, a point-of-sale terminal, or a server, depending on the application. This approach improves security without requiring complex hardware modifications, making it suitable for widespread adoption.
18. The method of claim 16 , wherein the key limitation comprises a minimum signal strength between the first electronic lock and the smart transaction card; and wherein determining that the key limitation is satisfied comprises detecting at least the minimum signal strength between the first electronic lock and the smart transaction card.
This invention relates to secure electronic access control systems, specifically methods for validating transactions between a smart transaction card and an electronic lock. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and reliable communication between the card and the lock, particularly in environments where signal interference or distance may compromise authentication. The method involves establishing a key limitation, which in this case is a minimum signal strength threshold between the smart transaction card and the electronic lock. The system detects the signal strength during the transaction and verifies that it meets or exceeds this threshold. If the signal strength is insufficient, the transaction is denied, preventing unauthorized access. This ensures that the card and lock are in close proximity, reducing the risk of relay attacks or other forms of signal manipulation. The smart transaction card and electronic lock communicate wirelessly, likely using near-field communication (NFC) or radio-frequency identification (RFID) protocols. The method may also include additional security measures, such as encryption or mutual authentication, to further validate the transaction. The key limitation acts as an additional layer of security, ensuring that the physical presence of the card is confirmed before granting access. This approach is particularly useful in high-security environments where unauthorized access must be prevented.
19. The method of claim 16 , wherein the check-in information further comprises a first biometric data from the user.
A system and method for user authentication and access control in secure environments, such as buildings or restricted areas, addresses the problem of unauthorized access and identity verification. The invention involves a check-in process where a user provides identification credentials, such as a badge or code, to gain entry. The check-in information is transmitted to a central server, which verifies the credentials and grants or denies access based on predefined rules. The system may also include additional security measures, such as requiring the user to be within a specific geographic area or time window to prevent unauthorized use of credentials. In an enhanced version of the method, the check-in information includes biometric data from the user, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans. This biometric data is captured during the check-in process and transmitted to the server for verification. The server compares the provided biometric data against stored biometric templates associated with the user's credentials to confirm the user's identity. If the biometric data matches, access is granted; otherwise, access is denied. This additional layer of authentication improves security by ensuring that only the authorized user can use their credentials. The system may also log biometric verification attempts for auditing and monitoring purposes.
20. The method of claim 19 , further comprising: receiving, from the smart transaction card, second biometric data; wherein the key limitation comprises the first biometric data; and wherein determining that the key limitation is satisfied comprises determining that the second biometric data matches the first biometric data.
A system and method for secure transactions using a smart transaction card with biometric authentication. The technology addresses security vulnerabilities in traditional payment systems by requiring biometric verification to authorize transactions. The smart transaction card includes a biometric sensor to capture first biometric data, such as a fingerprint or facial scan, during an initial setup or enrollment phase. This biometric data is stored as a reference for future authentication. During a transaction, the system receives second biometric data from the card, which is compared to the stored first biometric data. The transaction is only authorized if the second biometric data matches the first, ensuring that only the authorized user can complete the transaction. This method enhances security by preventing unauthorized use of the card, even if the card is lost or stolen. The biometric verification step acts as a key limitation, requiring a successful match before proceeding with the transaction. The system may also include additional security measures, such as encryption or tokenization, to further protect transaction data. This approach is particularly useful in financial transactions, access control systems, or any application requiring secure authentication.
Unknown
March 24, 2020
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.